This Idaho Nature Center Makes For The Perfect Outdoor Day Trip
By Courtnie Erickson|Published July 01, 2024
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Courtnie Erickson
Author
From Southern Utah to the Panhandle in Idaho, Courtnie Erickson has lived in what she believes are the best (and the most beautiful!) areas in the country. She graduated with a journalism degree from Utah State University and has more than 15 years of professional writing experience. You’ll likely see her with a Dr. Pepper in her hand and a pair of running shoes on her feet. Courtnie is a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState.
Some of my favorite day trips are those where I’m surrounded by the natural world. While there are incredible outdoor destinations all around Idaho, there is one that makes for a fantastic day outside — the Palouse Nature Center. Located on Rodeo Drive in Moscow, this 26.2-acre nature center is the perfect place to explore. Home to many features such as nature trails and a learning nursery, this destination is ideal for individuals of all ages. It’s the perfect day trip destination in Idaho.
The Palouse Nature Center is located in the heart of the Palouse in Moscow. This nature center is lesser known but home to incredible features to get you outside and learning.
The Palouse Nature Center got its start just over 20 years ago. In 2004, a 7.6-acre historic farm on Rodeo Drive was purchased with the intent of expanding the Palouse-Clearwater Environmental Institute headquarters. Since then, additional acreage has been bought to create the space we know and love today.
When visiting, bring your hiking shoes as you’ll want to spend plenty of time exploring the nature trails. These trails, as well as other areas of the nature center, are open from dawn to dusk seven days a week.
You’ll also want to stop at the John Crock Learning Nursery. In this nursery, you’ll find native plants that will be used in restoration projects all across the region. There are also plants for sale if desired.
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As you explore this northern Idaho nature center, you’ll also notice various sustainability projects including a straw bale bike pavilion, a water catchment system, and two living roofs. Even the parking lot is unique as it’s made of a GeoWeb system, which is an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional pavement.
I particularly am drawn to the Artist Studio. Here, individuals can reserve the space by the hour or even long term. This is a quiet space where you can work, reflect, or just admire the area's beauty as it overlooks the Nature Center.
Fun fact: This building features a living roof and was built using timber framing. This is a method where heavy timbers are milled and designed to fit within one another. They are held by a hardwood peg.
If you time your visit to the Palouse Nature Center in Moscow just right, you can also participate in one of the many events hosted at this outdoor destination.
The Palouse Nature Center is more than just a place to get away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s an outdoor day trip where you can find tranquility, natural beauty, and education.
Have you visited the Palouse Nature Center in Moscow? What are some of your favorite outdoor spaces in Idaho? Are there any day trips in Idaho that you love? Share your thoughts with us in the comments.
For more information on this outdoor destination, visit the Palouse Nature Center’s website.
If this is your first time visiting Moscow, I recommend you stay for a while. There is so much to do and see in this college town that one day is not enough. If you need a place to stay during your visit, consider a vacation rental.
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